David Cameron has scolded ‘pessimists’ who believe that Britain will be unable
to secure changes to the European Union, confronting arguments put forward
by Lord Lawson head on for the first time.

The Prime Minister told an investment conference in London that he was
“optimistic” he would be able to secure changes to the relationship.

He also signalled his unwillingness to entertain a so-called early mandate
referendum before the next election to strengthen Britain’s negotiating
position with the EU. Instead he insisted that the referendum would only
come after such discussions have taken place.